Destination Wedding Packages - Three Parts
Posted by Quentin Carmichael on Wed, Dec 24, 2008 @ 09:12 AM
We get a ton of questions regarding Destination Wedding packages, and what is included. Having planned my own DW this past May I completely understand that when you start planning it seems like a lot to put together. However, when you step back and look at it, Destination Wedding packages are only comprised of three parts:
(warning...this may sound too simple, but it usually helps couples think about the "big picture" and makes it easier to organize their budget by each part)
1. The travel. You will have to pay for you and your fiance's travel to and from the destination. Don't get wrapped up in trying to break this down into airfare, hotel, food, etc. You will only give yourself a headache. The vast majority of couple purchase this as one complete package that includes everything. And as a bonus, if you stay at an all-inclusive hotel (which I highly recommend), it includes all your food and drinks.
2. The ceremony. Many resorts at popular destinations offer very affordable (and sometimes free) ceremonies. However, like getting married at home, if you start adding on additional options...they are going to add onto your bill! Most resort packages offer enough to get you 90% of the way, and then you can add on whatever you need. I talked about my wedding in a past budgetting post where we added an upgraded flower and photography package, but we were fine with everything else.
3. The reception. Not every couple has a reception, but if you do you need to think of catering and/or setup costs. This depends again on the reception site, and the amount of people you have.

So, it may seem too simple, but it's an easy way to break Destination Wedding packages down into their three parts to make it easier to budget for.